Why did a lifelong GM loyalist with a 2019 Silverado at just 93,000 miles consider jumping ship to Ford or Dodge? The answer will make you rethink modern truck reliability.
Follow us today...
If you’ve ever spent time in an online owner’s group for vehicles, you know it’s a mixed bag of camaraderie, complaints, and advice. Yesterday, while browsing the 2019-2025 Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra Owners Facebook group, I stumbled upon a post that got people talking—and not in the way you’d expect for a vehicle proudly marketed as "reliable and tough." Mark Hensley shared a story about his 2019 Chevy Silverado RST, and let’s just say, it wasn’t a glowing testimonial.
Mark posted:
"Well, I got a call yesterday I didn’t expect. My 2019 Chevy Silverado RST with only 93,000 miles needs a new transmission. I guess they don’t make these trucks like they used to. Wonder if Dodge or Ford is having the same issue; if not, I might make the switch. Had GM all my life."
Mark’s words strike a nerve with any longtime GM loyalist. A failed transmission at under 100,000 miles isn’t exactly the rugged dependability Silverado drivers expect. But here’s the kicker—Mark isn’t alone in his frustration, and his post lit up the comments section like a wildfire.
What’s Really Going On With Modern Trucks?
Marcus Klem chimed in with an insightful—and somewhat sobering—response. He wrote, “They are all having the same types of issues because they all have to have similar overly complicated systems to meet government mandates on fuel mileage and emissions.”
These overly complex systems often lead to frustrations, like one Silverado owner’s battle with a bizarre 'Buckle to Shift' feature that left him questioning modern truck design.
This highlights a larger trend in the industry: automakers are under pressure to engineer cleaner, more efficient trucks, which has led to increasingly complex systems. Advanced transmissions with more gears, cylinder deactivation, and turbocharged engines may improve fuel economy on paper, but they also introduce more points of failure.
Dustin Deyagher offered a broader perspective: “Yes, every other make and model has different issues. To find out for yourself, join each make/model group to find out. Then again, most people join these groups looking for guidance on problems they're having. This is fairly normal for new vehicles, even a decade ago. This is why I always bought used in the past.”
His comment raises an important point—owner forums are like hospitals; you rarely see posts from people who are perfectly healthy (or in this case, perfectly happy with their trucks).
A Walk Down Memory Lane
When Mark lamented, “They don’t make these trucks like they used to,” it got me thinking: what era are we all so nostalgic for? As someone who’s been following the auto industry for decades, I remember hearing complaints about unreliable transmissions as far back as I can recall. Sure, trucks from the 1970s or ‘80s might have been simpler, but they also didn’t offer the performance, safety, or fuel economy we’ve come to expect today.
Still, there are success stories, even among modern Silverados. David Nguyen commented, “My dad has a 2019 Silverado with 20,000 miles and a 6.2L engine. Not a lick of issues. My 2019 truck with a 5.3 had a transmission go at 138,000 miles and lifters go out at 180k. I now have a 2023 with the 3.0, and my transmission went out 2 days ago with 38k on it.”
While David’s experience is mixed, it shows that mileage, engine type, and usage habits all play a role in a truck’s reliability. For every story of a failed transmission, there’s another of a Silverado chugging along for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Lessons Learned
So, what’s the takeaway from all of this? For one, truck reliability is a complex issue that depends on many factors, from engineering decisions to how a vehicle is driven and maintained. While it’s tempting to point fingers at manufacturers or wax nostalgic about the “good old days,” the truth is that every generation of vehicles has its strengths and flaws.
At the same time, it’s clear that as trucks become more sophisticated, maintenance becomes more critical. Regular fluid changes, using the correct oils, and staying on top of service intervals can make the difference between a catastrophic failure and a long-lasting vehicle.
What Do You Think?
Have you had a similar experience with your Chevy Silverado or another truck? Are you a GM loyalist who feels let down by modern reliability, or have you found success with a different approach to ownership?
Let us know in the comments—whether you’ve got a horror story, a success story, or some advice for others, your perspective matters.
The Moral of the Story
Vehicles, like people, aren’t perfect. They all come with their quirks, weaknesses, and strengths. But much like life, how you handle those imperfections—whether by finding solutions, sharing experiences, or simply adjusting expectations—can make all the difference. The key is to approach problems with patience, an open mind, and a willingness to learn. Isn’t that a lesson we could all use?
While some owners face hurdles, Chevrolet is making strides to enhance reliability and capability, as seen in the upcoming 2025 Silverado, which focuses on blending affordability with impressive performance. Discover what’s new and exciting about the 2025 Silverado model here.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.
Follow us today...
As a long time GM owner I've…
As a long time GM owner I've never had early failures on my vehicles and I tend to keep them for a long time. I'm currently driving a 2011 gmc sierra z60 with 216k and the drive train has never failed. My wife's 2014 Buick enclave has 179k and still drives and looks like a new car. Not a gm product but I had a 1986 jeep Wagoneer ( last of the old AMC models) that I sold with 286k on it. Wish I still had it.
The 6 speed transmission on…
The 6 speed transmission on my 2015 GMC Acadia started to go at 136K miles. Torque converter as best I could tell. I changed the trans fluid at 50k and 110k. Drain and fill 3 times both changes. It was an FWD model, never beat on. With tow package and only occaisional light towing. Meanwhile the 3.6 V6 did not burn a drop of oil at that mileage and ran great with good MPG. Don't understand the dichotomy. My previous car - a 2008 Chrysler Pacifica (6speed) had 186k when I sold it and never any tranny work and I worked that much harder (constantly towing). The GMC is gone replaced with a Ford FWD product, which has a related 6 speed transmission (joint design venture between GM and Ford). I hope it does better than the GMC. Meanwhile my wife's Buick Verano with well over 100k miles has been bulletproof with no trouble at all (2.4L 6speed).
I have had three suburban,…
I have had three suburban, 1987, 1996 and 2016 all three have had transmission problems with less than 100,000 miles. The 1987 and 1996 had full transmission rebuilds under extended warranties. After rebuilds they lasted into the 200,000 to 221,000 miles before trading off. The 2016 they would only cover the replacement of the torque converter. Waiting to see how long it goes before it develops transmission problems. Chevy has always had weak transmissions and the after market rebuilds have always been better.
I have a 2017 Silverado and…
I have a 2017 Silverado and my transmission went out at 90k. It's very frustrating. I'm also a loyal GM truck owner but I'm considering something else soon....maybe Toyota 🤷♂️
Yes, trucks are more complex…
Yes, trucks are more complex, but the problems are basic. The 5.3’s should not be having lifter failures. Period. The transmission failures span years and it isn’t just transmissions, it’s also the torque converter, which isn’t a particularly complicated component. The more likely cause is using cheaper materials and cutting corners in structural design. My 2016 has lots of cool technology and convenience, but I’d trade it for a more reliable drive train if that’s what it took. My 2003 gave me no problems until the transmission started to slip at 240,000 and I would’ve just replaced it if the truck wasn’t rusted out beyond repair; in fact, there are days when I wish I still had it.
There is no excuse for the major drive train failures. If the Big Three are going to cheap out on the drive drains and charge north of $70K for upgraded trims, then they need to warranty those drive trains for the life of the truck. End of story.
Bought a Dodge in 2007,…
Bought a Dodge in 2007, trans started slipping at 112,000 miles. Sold it and bought a Ford in 2009 and put 340,000 miles on it. Sold it and bought a 2013 Ford which currently has 277,00miles, and it still runs like new. Prior to that, I was always a GM guy, but wasn't happy with my GM cars and trucks, as they gave up quality for profit.
Same thing happened to our…
Same thing happened to our son we had to pay for it. 5000 dollars later.
I've hardy ever seen a…
I've hardy ever seen a standard transmission fail. The auto makers must think that we are unable to shift for ourselves. GM after 2006 model year is garbage !! The stupid electronic crap they put in fails constantly. Make a Truck for the working man again !!
At 62, I have had many…
At 62, I have had many American made vehicles over the years. For the last 20 years, I have owned 2 honda cars that I still have. I will never go back to an American made vehicle again.
My 2019 silverado needed a…
My 2019 silverado needed a new engine after 104,000 miles..I never missed an oil change had flawless maintainance records ...cost $11,500 and basically Chevy gave me the middle finger. I've bought nothing but silverados for twenty years...and I'm just waiting for the transmission to fail now..thanks gm
I'm the second owner of a 04…
I'm the second owner of a 04 1500 Z71 4x4 silverado 5.3 and it's got 384k on it and I'm rebuilding the 4l60e transmission now and I've put a water pump on it the mechanical things to go since it was purchased new by my dad
Every Chevy or GM product I…
Every Chevy or GM product I've ever owned ended up having transmission problems. My friend's 2021 Chevy Colorado seems to slip a little when it shifts from 1st to 2nd after it sits for a few hours. The dealer told him that's normal and wouldn't do anything. Now warranty is done so he's stuck with it.
I have a 2005 Silverado 1500…
I have a 2005 Silverado 1500 V6 engine. Has almost 300,000 mi on it and never any transmission problems.
I own a 21 Sierra with 45k…
I own a 21 Sierra with 45k mi. Love the truck,so far no issues other than second to third gear rough shift when cold. Oil change at dealer every 4-4.5k. thinking about trans oil and filter along with next oil change.ext.warranty. I also use a range inhibitor.
I had a 2007 Chevy Silverado…
I had a 2007 Chevy Silverado 5.3L with 30k miles on it. Transmission went out. It was covered under warranty. GM is having issues with the 6 speed transmissions.
Automakers and others are…
Automakers and others are always blaming the government for their problems....we gave the cleanest running, mist efficient fastest and safest vehicles we have ever had and NONE of this would have happened had the government not issued these mandates.
.
It's the lack of quality control on the automakers part that is the problem!
Exactly. Don't forget that…
Exactly. Don't forget that as a market we DEMAND advancements and new options.
Not one person commenting here would be a 72 Ford F 100 base model of it was still offered.
I like cruise control, I like air bag safety, etc.
The government is just an excuse for lazy thinkers and customers.
I am an Engineer for a…
I am an Engineer for a company that is a Tier 1 supplier to Ford, GM & Stellantis, among others, and I can assure you that the Quality control is stricter than ever. You would be amazed about how tightly control contamination on transmission parts now. Also, actual production doesn't start until several years after product launch and they perform lots of builds and testing during that time. The Quality precautions being taken are abundant. IMO, quality is tightly controlled & better than ever.
I have a 2005 Chevrolet…
I have a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD with 269,000 miles on it and it still runs like it did when I bought it,
2019 GMC 1500 5.3 engine…
2019 GMC 1500 5.3 engine. Transmission went out at 72,000 miles so we put in a rebuilt transmission. Water pump went out two times before that. Then at 82,000 miles cylinder 6 rings went out they recommend a new engine. Had 9 GMC trucks from 1500's to 2500's and i put 260,000 miles on them without any issues. The service bulletins was so many to list and GM's attitude was "Oh well sorry" Got a Ram 2500 with a 6.7 Cummings. Never been a Ram driver but what a difference. This Ram just feels solid like its ready to work hard all day and it does. I did have 5 recalls on it but Ram fixed them all without any costs to me. If we did not have the recalls I would have never had issues with it and so far got 155,000 miles on it. Never going back to GMC.
While the mechanical issues…
While the mechanical issues with newer trucks is one thing, the overall durability due to environment is another, bigger issue. My 2012 Chevy Colorado looked fine and ran fine, however the frame had holes in it you could stick a fist through.
Every manufacturer has had frame rot issues, none really seem to be addressing it. I am now driving a 1989 Toyota pickup with a pristine frame so it is possible tomake the frames last. There is no truck made in at least 20 years I'd buy because the frames rust away to nothing.
"2025 Silverado, which…
"2025 Silverado, which focuses on blending affordability with impressive performance" and you are telling us the 2025 is GREAT !!!!!! BET YOU SAID THE SAME ABOUT THE 2019
I have a gmc Serra 2016 had…
I have a gmc Serra 2016 had a lot of miles when I bought it I purchased an extended warranty with it. Now I try to get my trans looked at for very hard shift sometimes from 1st to 2 nd I was told by a dealer if that’s all you’re having you should be lucky and it is in spec. Now the differential clunks real bad from forward to reverse joints are good was told if it didn’t turn more than a 1/4 of the way around still in spec just purchased a used on to put in soo why have extended warranty
I had a 2017 Silverado and…
I had a 2017 Silverado and my transmission went out first it went to skipping jumping and bouncing at about 90 miles an hour took off then stopped then took off on his own again then wouldn't even move got the transmission rebuilt then all of a sudden it start ticking making a different type of a sound up top GM would not acknowledge anything according to the Chevy shakes or whatever the name you want to put on it I've been through almost eight grand and repairs the truck is still not running it's sitting in the driveway if it ruined my credit and oh by the way they didn't want the truck back so basically I'm stuck with a non-working truck that just hit 100,000 miles so the warranty was not good and no one at GM is willing to respond accordingly for the 17 models that are having these issues it's just the Chevy shakes that's not really a way of solving a problem when you just took a total loss on the truck that ruins your credit your financials as well as losing two different jobs because well this was my source of transportation to and from work beautiful truck I love it at the same time at the same place I have to keep going to outside sources to fix the truck that isn't fixed how do you solve that problem readers
As you stated in the article…
As you stated in the article, you absolutely have to male sure that you are up to the mile on your maintenance. The fluids need to be changed per the owner's manual under the "normal driving conditions," and stay AWAY from the "Extended driving conditions," because only about 2% of owners actually drive within the extended parameters.
You definitely need to change the oil and filter at 3k mi., and the granny fluid and filter at the interval set up in the manual. Everyone also forgets about changing the brake fluid every 2 years or 20k miles. I've seen cars/trucks with brake fluid so black it looked like used motor oil. The coolant also needs to be changed around 3 years or 40k miles, even if the manufacturer says it is "lifetime fluid", because that is an outright lie. Just ask the millions of Subaru and Mitsubishi owners that have replaced engines and transmissions because of the acidic coolant.
These fluids should be checked more often if you tow with a truck, or haul a lot of stuff on a regular basis.
Too many people think they can simply beat the crap out of their vehicles and the vehicle will go on for hundreds of thousands of miles trouble free.
I've worked in the automotive industry from sales to service to auto-body, and I can tell you horror stories of misuse and abuse of vehicles. Sure there are trouble vehicles, but more and more it is the operator error that makes the vehicle fail.
He won't be jumping ship to…
He won't be jumping ship to Dodge because Dodge doesn't build trucks.
Not sure why folks are…
Not sure why folks are surprised that vehicles have failures related to manufacturing or design issues. They all have them and people should be happy they can rely upon vehicle manufacturers warranties. We all have these stories. I have a 2024 Kia Telluride and the door trim on all four doors is falling off. The explanation is the glue holding them on tends to fail especially when you take it through a car wash. Great.